Improper Handling and Storage of Soiled Linens
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper handling, storage, processing, and transportation of soiled linens to prevent the spread of infection on Hall D. Observations revealed that a large transparent plastic bag containing soiled bed linens and a pillow was left on the floor in front of the laundry room door, and another bag containing a soiled hospital gown was placed on top of a trash barrel. The housekeeper responsible, HK A, stated she left the linen on the floor because the laundry room door was locked and she did not have a key, and placed the bag of gowns on the trash can lid due to the lack of another available barrel. Both the DON and the HK Supervisor confirmed that these actions were not in accordance with facility policy and created an infection control issue. Record review showed that HK A had previously received in-service training on proper linen handling, which directed that all soiled linen must be placed in a plastic bag before removal from a room and stored only in the laundry room, never on the floor. The facility's policy also required soiled linen to be placed directly into a covered laundry hamper. Despite this training, the observed actions did not comply with established protocols, as confirmed by staff interviews and documentation.